An Oxford-based training company has introduced special training sessions to help solicitors and estate agents communicate, it emerged this week.


Three solicitors' firms in the Leeds area - Fox Hayes, Levi & Co and Blacks Direct - have so far completed the specialised training sessions together with estate agents Manning Stainton.



The one-day programme puts solicitors and estate agents together in mixed teams to complete a practical exercise. It aims to help participants develop listening skills, avoid making assumptions and construct short, easy-to-digest e-mails.



Clare Fletcher, founder of Clare Fletcher Training, who designed the course, said: 'In many ways, solicitors and estate agents come from opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of the way they work, and even the sort of people the two professions attract. There is all too frequently a gulf in understanding.'